What is Orthokeratology?

Orthokeratology (Ortho K) contact lenses are specifically designed rigid or hard contact lenses that you wear while you sleep. These lenses rest on the surface of the eye and trap a reserve of tears to gently reshape the cornea. Once the lenses have been worn overnight the newly shaped cornea provides clear vision throughout the day, eliminating the need for glasses or regular contact lenses. The reshaping of the cornea is temporary and reversible, so the lenses should be used every night to ensure the cornea’s shape and maintaining clear vision.

Who is Suitable for Orthokeratology?

Ortho K was initially developed for the correction of myopia (short-sightedness). However, through advances in technology we are now able to correct hyperopia, presbyopia and astigmatism with Ortho K lenses. This process can also be done from as young as 6 years of age. 

Benefits of Orthokeratology   

Ortho K boasts various benefits, primarily having corrected vision throughout the day without the need for contact lenses or spectacles. Aside from this, research has proven that Ortho K is an effective treatment option for reducing the progression of myopia in children. Myopia usually develops during childhood and has the potential to progress (ie: glasses continue to get stronger) until young adult years. High levels of myopia are more commonly associated with retinal pathologies, in addition to glaucoma, retinal detachments and cataracts. Due to this relationship it is important to slow the progression of myopia once it has developed.

Additional benefits include:

If you do a lot of swimming or water sports where you can’t wear glasses or contact lenses
You work in an environment that is smoky or dusty and contact lenses are contraindicated 
Suffer from eye allergies, such as itchy or dry eyes
Have an intolerance to wearing contact lenses during the day

Orthokeratology at Eyedeal Optometrist

We use the latest technology for all our Ortho K lenses and each lens is specifically customised and manufactured for the wearer. Please come in store or give us a call on 3399 4848 to see if you are eligible for this revolutionary treatment, leaving you glasses free.

FAQs 

How often do you have to replace the lenses?

Ortho K lenses are very precise and any significant change in the prescription would result in new lenses in order to continue the effectiveness. However normally lenses last on average 2 years.

Why is this better than laser refractive surgery?

Orthokeratology is completely reversible, unlike Laser eye surgery
Changes in prescription over time can be dealt with by changing the lens parameters and no need for additional surgery
Orthokeratology is not as invasive or expensive as Laser eye surgery. There is also no post-operative pain or recovery period
Able to slow the progression of myopia